By Pierce Blitch
Myofascial pain injury often affects those with soft tissue injuries involving muscles and surrounding connective tissues. Even President John F. Kennedy suffered from chronic myofascial pain injury from his time in World War II. His White House physician, Dr. Janet Travell, authored the foundational medical treatise, Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction: The Trigger Point Manual. At The Blitch Law Firm, we’ve represented numerous clients suffering from chronic myofascial pain due to various accidents.
Challenges in Proving Soft Tissue Injuries
Insurance companies and defense lawyers frequently undervalue “soft tissue” injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Without clear, visual evidence, convincing a jury to recognize the seriousness of these injuries can be tough. Often, claims backed only by subjective pain reports lead to accusations of exaggeration or malingering. Critics might dismiss the existence of these injuries as “junk science,” despite the objective reality of hard trigger points that an examiner can feel.
Understanding Chronic Myofascial Pain
While many muscle strains heal within weeks, chronic myofascial pain—lasting six months or more—can be life-altering. The pain can lead to muscle stiffness and persistent trigger points, severely impacting daily life. It’s crucial for your injury lawyer to understand the medical nuances of myofascial pain and know how to prove such injuries objectively.
Identifying Myofascial Pain Trigger Points
Physical exams for myofascial pain reveal tiny, hard knots within the muscles or fascia. These trigger points can cause referred pain, tenderness, and autonomic changes when compressed. They are sensitive to both touch and movement.
Types of Trigger Points
Myofascial pain involves two types of trigger points: active and latent. Active trigger points cause pain without any movement, while latent ones hurt only when pressed. This condition often leads to increased muscle stiffness and more trigger points.
Importance of Exercise in Recovery
Exercise is essential in recovering from myofascial pain injury. Aerobic exercise can reduce inflammation and improve blood flow, helping to alleviate pain. However, pain often limits physical activity, making low-impact exercises like swimming or water aerobics beneficial. A healthy diet and adequate sleep are also vital, especially for those dealing with chronic pain.
Treatment Options for Myofascial Pain Injury
Treatment for myofascial pain typically includes medications, trigger point injections, and physical therapy. Exercise remains a key component of any treatment plan. People with chronic pain might need to modify their activities, which can have broad effects on their health and quality of life. Chronic pain can also lead to social withdrawal, reduced physical activity, and depression.
Medications for Myofascial Pain
Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium can help. Doctors may prescribe stronger pain relievers or pain patches.
Antidepressants: Amitriptyline can reduce pain and improve sleep for some people.
Sedatives: Clonazepam might help with anxiety and poor sleep but must be used carefully due to potential drowsiness and habit formation.
Physical Therapy and Home Exercises
Stretching Exercises: Gentle stretches can ease muscle pain. A numbing spray might be used if stretching increases trigger point pain.
Posture Training: Improving posture can help alleviate myofascial pain.
Massage: Techniques like neuromuscular massage or using a therapy ball can provide relief.
Heat Therapy: Hot packs, showers, baths, or whirlpool tubs can reduce muscle tension and pain.
Ultrasound Therapy: This increases blood circulation and warmth, promoting healing in affected muscles.
Needle Procedures
Needle procedures involve either injections or dry needling. Injecting a numbing agent or steroid into a trigger point can relieve pain. Skilled practitioners can also use dry needling, sometimes combined with electrical stimulation. Chiropractic treatment and acupuncture may offer additional relief.
Long-Term Impact of Chronic Myofascial Pain
Chronic myofascial pain—lasting more than six months—can significantly impact quality of life. Symptoms can persist for years, affecting physical and mental health.
Proving Chronic Myofascial Pain in Court
Objective Evidence
Ultrasound imaging and MRI can visualize trigger points and muscle damage. While these images are invaluable, they must be supplemented with clear explanations and visual aids to be understood by jurors.
Practical Evidence
Evidence of how chronic myofascial pain affects daily life is crucial. Testimonies from individuals who have observed the injured person’s pain behavior can be compelling.
If you or a loved one suffers from chronic myofascial pain caused by another’s negligence, contact The Blitch Law Firm today at 706-434-8770 or visit us at 7004 Evans Town Center Blvd., Third Floor, Evans, Georgia 30809.
CALL THE Blitch Law Firm ATTORNEYS AT LAW TODAY TO DISCUSS YOUR PERSONAL INJURY CASE
We fight for you, and we don’t back down. Every personal injury case has potentially life-altering consequences. We don’t hold back on providing our clients the best possible representation. At The Blitch Law Firm, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a personal injury case can take. If you, a family member, or a close friend has been injured due to someone else’s negligence, contact The Blitch Law Firm today at 706-434-8770 or visit us at 7004 Evans Town Center Blvd., Third Floor, Evans, Georgia 30809 to discuss your unique case and our dedicated personal injury strategies with one of our compassionate and experienced attorneys.
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Categories: Personal Injury